CODESYS vs LogixPro
Comprehensive comparison of two leading PLC programming platforms
CODESYS
CODESYS GmbH (3S-Smart Software Solutions)
FREE basic version - perfect for learning
LogixPro
The Learning Pit
Extremely affordable (~$50 for students)
Overall Winner
CODESYS leads with an overall score of 85/100
CODESYS is the stronger overall choice with better pricing. However, LogixPro may be preferable if you prioritize ease of use or if you're already committed to the The Learning Pit ecosystem.
Score Breakdown
| Category | CODESYS | LogixPro |
|---|---|---|
| Overall | 85✓ | 51 |
| Pricing | 100✓ | 95 |
| Ease of Use | 70 | 100✓ |
| Features | 86✓ | 40 |
| Industry Adoption | 83✓ | 15 |
| Community Support | 100✓ | 60 |
| Career Value | 77✓ | 16 |
Real-World Scenario Recommendations
See how CODESYS and LogixPro perform in specific industry scenarios to help guide your decision.
Small Machine Builder
OEM building compact machines with 50-200 I/O points, typically for niche markets or specialized applications
CODESYS
Perhaps the best strategic choice for small OEMs with growth ambitions. CODESYS basic version is FREE, and professional features are affordable ($0-$2,000). The killer advantage: hardware flexibility. Your first machines might use WAGO controllers (cost-effective), but as you grow, you can switch to other brands using the SAME programming environment. This prevents vendor lock-in and gives you neg...
LogixPro
Not applicable for actual machine building - this is a learning simulator only. However, if you're training a junior programmer or familiarizing yourself with Allen-Bradley ladder logic before investing in Studio 5000, the $50-$100 cost is trivial. You can practice logic development offline without hardware. Some small OEMs use LogixPro to train new hires on fundamentals before putting them on rea...
Key Considerations:
- •Per-machine software licensing cost vs expected production volume
- •Time-to-market pressure - can you afford 6+ month learning curves?
- •Target customer geography and brand preferences
- •Hardware cost optimization - some platforms offer cheaper controllers
Automotive Tier 1 Supplier
Tier 1 automotive supplier providing systems and components directly to OEM vehicle manufacturers (VW, BMW, GM, Ford, Toyota, etc.)
CODESYS
Limited direct application for automotive Tier 1 suppliers due to OEM brand preferences, but valuable strategic knowledge. CODESYS underlies many automation platforms (including Schneider's EcoStruxure), so understanding it helps with multiple systems. Some automotive OEMs in China and emerging markets are more open to CODESYS-based controllers, offering cost advantages. The free engineering softw...
LogixPro
Purely educational - not for production equipment. However, useful for training new engineers on Allen-Bradley ladder logic fundamentals before Studio 5000 licenses. At $50-$100, it's a cost-effective onboarding tool for junior engineers joining your team. Some Tier 1 suppliers use LogixPro in training programs before giving new hires access to actual production systems.
Key Considerations:
- •Customer-specified platforms are non-negotiable - verify before any engineering investment
- •Long-term parts availability (15-20 years) is critical for automotive
- •Safety certifications (SIL 2/SIL 3) must be well-established and accepted
- •Customer's plant maintenance teams must be trained on your platform
Process Industry (Chemical, Oil & Gas, Pharma)
Continuous process control in chemical plants, refineries, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and other process industries requiring high reliability and regulatory compliance
CODESYS
Underlying platform for several process automation systems (including Schneider's EcoStruxure), but rarely deployed directly in process industries. The hardware flexibility could theoretically reduce vendor lock-in, but process plants prioritize long-term single-vendor support over flexibility. The free engineering software is attractive for development, but process plants need vendor guarantees f...
LogixPro
Educational tool only. Useful for training process operators or junior engineers on ladder logic fundamentals before working with actual DCS/PLC systems. At $50-$100, a cost-effective training tool but not for production processes.
Key Considerations:
- •Redundancy and high availability are mandatory for critical processes
- •Safety certifications (SIL 2/SIL 3) for emergency shutdown systems
- •Long-term vendor support (20-30 year plant lifecycles)
- •Integration with process instrumentation and field devices
💰Pricing Comparison
Both CODESYS and LogixPro are in the same price range ($). CODESYS pricing ranges from $0 to $2 000, while LogixPro ranges from $50 to $100.
📚Learning Curve
LogixPro (rated 2/10) is easier to learn than CODESYS (rated 5/10). LogixPro typically takes 2-4 weeks to learn, while CODESYS requires 2-4 months. This makes LogixPro better for beginners.
⚙️Features & Capabilities
CODESYS offers 11 key features including safety programming, motion control, robotics integration. LogixPro provides 10 key features. CODESYS offers a comprehensive feature set for industrial automation.
🏭Industry Adoption
CODESYS has 70% market adoption compared to LogixPro's 5%. CODESYS dominates in Europe, Asia-Pacific, North America, while LogixPro is strongest in Global (education only). CODESYS's higher adoption means more job opportunities and community resources.
🔌Hardware Compatibility
CODESYS is designed specifically for Over 500 manufacturers including Schneider Electric, Wago, Eaton, ifm, Festo, Bosch Rexroth hardware, while LogixPro works with Simulation only (Allen-Bradley emulation) PLCs. Both are vendor-specific solutions optimized for their respective hardware ecosystems.
💼Career Prospects
CODESYS offers stronger career prospects with 70% market adoption and official certification programs. LogixPro has 5% adoption and is growing in market presence. For maximum employability, CODESYS expertise is more in-demand.
CODESYS Overview
Key Strengths
- ✓FREE basic version - perfect for learning
- ✓Supports wide range of hardware (500+ manufacturers)
- ✓Pure IEC 61131-3 standard compliance
- ✓Excellent for education and training
Limitations
- ✗Less recognized brand than Siemens/Rockwell
- ✗Professional features require paid add-ons
- ✗Fewer job postings specifically for CODESYS
Best For
LogixPro Overview
Key Strengths
- ✓Extremely affordable (~$50 for students)
- ✓Perfect for absolute beginners
- ✓No hardware needed to learn
- ✓Realistic simulation environment
Limitations
- ✗Simulation only - not for real PLCs
- ✗Limited to Allen-Bradley/RSLogix style ladder logic
- ✗No advanced features (motion, safety, networking)
Best For
Recommendations
For Beginners
LogixPro
For Professionals
CODESYS
Budget-Constrained
Both are suitable
Enterprise Use
CODESYS
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better: CODESYS or LogixPro?
CODESYS is the stronger overall choice with better pricing. However, LogixPro may be preferable if you prioritize ease of use or if you're already committed to the The Learning Pit ecosystem.
What is the price difference between CODESYS and LogixPro?
Both CODESYS and LogixPro are in the same price range ($). CODESYS pricing ranges from $0 to $2 000, while LogixPro ranges from $50 to $100.
Which is easier to learn: CODESYS or LogixPro?
LogixPro (rated 2/10) is easier to learn than CODESYS (rated 5/10). LogixPro typically takes 2-4 weeks to learn, while CODESYS requires 2-4 months. This makes LogixPro better for beginners.
Which has better career prospects?
CODESYS offers stronger career prospects with 70% market adoption and official certification programs. LogixPro has 5% adoption and is growing in market presence. For maximum employability, CODESYS expertise is more in-demand.